Not Your Typical Recruiting Story

For anyone who doesn't think that recruiting is an imperfect science, consider this story. I got an email earlier this week alerting me to the success of All-Met wide receiver Brandon Johnson-Farrell of Arundel, who is lighting it up as a freshman at Rhode Island.

I remember last year, when Johnson-Farrell and Arundel Coach Chuck Markiewicz were desperate for attention from college coaches. Johnson-Farrell set Maryland public school single-season records with 103 catches for 1,394 yards and 23 touchdowns, but there was some thought that his gawdy stats were more the result of the Wildcats' pass-happy system than any special talent.

As it turns out, Johnson-Farrell's big break came when Rhode Island made an offseason coaching chance and hired Rutgers assistant Darren Rizzi, who wanted to implement a spread offense but needed the players to do so.

"After I watched Brandon's high school highlight tape, I was shocked that he was still out there," Rizzi said. "I'm not sure why Brandon flew under the radar, but I'm awfully glad he did. We were very fortunate to get a receiver of that caliber so late in the recruiting process."

Johnson-Farrell has indeed proven quite a pickup for Rhode Island. The 5-foot-10, 185-pound speedster leads the Rams with 26 receptions for 237 yards. He is also serving as a kickoff and punt returner and leads the Colonial Athletic Association in all-purpose yardage with 658.

"I knew Brandon had ability and had a bright future, but I'd be lying if I said I thought he would be this good, this fast," Rizzi said. "He has really exceeded our expectations. He has been a great, great addition, an immediate impact type of player."